Single-family rental developer-operator Placefirst has promoted Anna Hwang to the role of chief investment officer (CIO).

Anna Hwang

Anna Hwang

According to the firm, the position has been newly created to support both Placefirst and its investor, Matter Real Estate, with increasing the residential portfolio size, developing and executing Placefirst’s investment strategy, and overseeing the management of the investment portfolio.

Hwang joined Placefirst from Savills, where she held the role of director of operational capital markets.

Before becoming CIO, she held the position of director of assets and Strategy with the company.

Hwang will also be responsible for managing property transactions on behalf of Placefirst, which help to transform and grow the company’s portfolio.

Placefirst’s current project pipeline includes the £21 mln (€25 mln) Bolt Works development in Halifax, which will deliver 122 homes by 2025, and the £35m Deansgate Garden neighbourhood, which once complete will provide 167 homes for the people of Bolton.

Her appointment also comes as Placefirst announce their expansion into the East Midlands, with an £8 mln forward-funded deal for the acquisition of 34 homes in Corby from Midlands-based housing developer Jelson Homes.

David Mawson, CEO at Placefirst, said: 'Anna has been a brilliant addition to the senior leadership team at Placefirst, and we’re looking forward to seeing what she’ll achieve in her new role as chief investment officer.

'As we look to continue implementing our growth strategy, the quality of our asset portfolio will play an increasingly important role. Anna’s expertise and experience in asset management will ensure that Placefirst is best placed for sustainable and long-term growth.'